Sauna or Steam Room After Workout: Can It Really Burn Extra Calories?

Many fitness enthusiasts often follow their workout with a session in the sauna or steam room, believing that it can help burn extra calories. But is there any truth to this claim? Let’s delve into the science behind this popular post-workout routine and explore whether it can indeed contribute to weight loss.

Understanding the Basics

Before we can answer the question, it’s important to understand what happens to our bodies in a sauna or steam room. Both environments expose the body to high temperatures, causing the heart rate to increase and the body to sweat as it tries to cool down. This process is known as thermoregulation.

Does Thermoregulation Burn Calories?

Thermoregulation does require energy, and therefore burns some calories. However, the number of calories burned is relatively small. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, a 30-minute infrared sauna session could burn about 600 calories. However, this figure is highly dependent on the individual’s body composition, metabolism, and other factors.

Can Sauna or Steam Room Aid in Weight Loss?

While sitting in a sauna or steam room can result in temporary weight loss, this is primarily due to water loss from sweating, not fat loss. Once you rehydrate, the weight will likely return. Therefore, using a sauna or steam room should not be considered a primary strategy for weight loss.

Benefits of Sauna and Steam Room Post-Workout

Even if saunas and steam rooms aren’t effective for burning significant amounts of calories, they still offer several health benefits, especially after a workout. These include:

• Improved circulation: The heat from a sauna or steam room can increase blood flow, which can aid in muscle recovery after a workout.
• Relaxation: The heat can also help to relax the muscles and relieve tension, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being.
• Detoxification: Sweating can help to flush toxins from the body, promoting healthier skin and overall wellness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a post-workout sauna or steam room session can burn some calories, it’s not a significant amount and should not be relied upon as a weight loss strategy. However, the benefits of improved circulation, relaxation, and detoxification make it a worthwhile addition to any fitness routine. As always, it’s important to stay hydrated and listen to your body to avoid overheating or dehydration.